meet the dancers

Gail Lockard co-founder

With a lifelong passion for dance, I’ve dedicated my career to coaching and inspiring young dancers. I’ve been teaching and mentoring students for over two decades, helping them discover their potential and love for the arts. I also founded Passages Arts Connection, a nonprofit focused on providing creative opportunities for youth. Watching my students grow, both as dancers and individuals, continues to be my greatest joy. 

Amanda Wilcox co-founder

With just one ballet class from a very young age, I was strong-armed into trying out for dance team in high school. I haven't looked back and have been heavily involved in the Oregon high school dance team scene for about 30 years. I have no free time, it's all dance all the time.

Angie Sharpe co-founder

I started dancing at 10 and have been steadily involved in dance between coaching and performing for 25 years. I've been happily married for 20+ years and have two amazing children and the perfect little cabin in the woods. 

Mackenzie Johnson co-founder

Coming soon

Stephanie Gillies

I started dancing in high school on the dance team.  And now I’m a dance mom for my daughter.  Joining the company has given me that chance to dance again and to share that love for dance with my daughter. 

Kayla McCaul

Dancing since the age of 11, I’ve found immeasurable joy and connection through movement. My coaches and teammates became like family, shaping both my skills and my spirit. To this day, dance remains a source of happiness, and I love being able to continue doing what lights me up! 

Karly Derschmidt

I absolutely love dancing with The Collective. It is such a special way for women of all ages to come together. Outside of this ground, I love being outdoors, trying new hobbies, and going to great restaurants around Portland.

Isa Rust

Dance has been in my life for as long as I can remember! Sure I wasn’t very good when I was 3, but I’d like to think I've improved a bit since then. If I’m not dancing I’m probably working on a project… where I’m probably still starting dance parties with my coworkers lol. 

Shannon Marrs

I've been a dancer and singer since 2nd grade. As an adult, I've held various roles from performing, dancing, coaching, teaching, and judging in the dance world. I've been married to my wonderful husband for 20+ years and have two amazing nieces who are our heart and soul! 

Nicolette Epperson

I have been involved with dance since the young age of 3. Everything from tap to hip hop to ballet. I’ve even tried cheerleading a couple of times. I absolutely love dance and the healing it can bring a person. These days I spend my time baking, being a mom to my 2 great kiddos and loving on my hunk of a husband. I’m super happy to be dancing again with The Collective!!

MaKaeyla Schultz

I began dancing at the age of 3 and haven’t stopped since! Over these years I have been able to dance with several pre-professional dance companies in the Portland and LA areas. When not teaching dance or performing, I work as an RN in the Doernbecher Pediatric Intensive Care Unit.

MaKenzie Pool

I am a 25 year old who’s been dancing since the ripe age of 3 years old. I've had opportunities to dance in pre-professional companies in Portland and LA as well as dancing at my college WSU back in 2018. When I'm not dancing or teaching dance, I'm an animal lab technician at the Oregon National Primate Research Center.

Brandy Rizzo

I began dance classes after copying my big sister’s routine when I was 2 years old. Since then I have explored tap, jazz, ballet, baton, contemporary, modern, line dancing, and various forms of swing and partner dancing. When not dancing I enjoy reading, harassing my amazing daughter and racing with my husband.

Cassie Markstaller

I have been dancing since 3 years old and still can’t get enough! I am a special education teacher and dance team coach who enjoys learning new skills and warm weather. 

Becca Clark

I've been dancing since I was 5 in studio then continue to the high school dance team. I just love dancing!  Born and raised in Oregon and I am a barber! 

Isis Alexander

With 8 years of dance experience and 10 years of gymnastics training, I combine grace, strength, and versatility. As a gymnastics coach who continues to train independently, I bring passion and precision to every performance. 

Kristen Myers-Coverstone